Sydenham chorea

Alternative names:

St. Vitus dance

Treatment:

Antibiotics are given to assure clearing of streptococci (the cause of rheumatic fever). Continuous preventive antibiotics (antibiotic prophylaxis) may be prescribed.

Supportive care is given as necessary to control symptoms of Sydenham chorea. Sedation may be advised in severe cases.

Expectations (prognosis):

Sydenham chorea generally clears up over a course of several months.

Complications:

No complications are expected.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your child develops uncontrollable or jerkey movements suggestive of this disease, especially if the child has recently had a sore throat.